Suspect a Driver is Drunk? Look For These Signs

Driving under the influence is a serious issue that puts lives at risk every day. When someone gets behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, their ability to drive safely is compromised. Recognizing the signs of a drunk driver can help you take precautions to protect yourself and others on the road.

Tennessee has strict laws against drunk driving, The state is known for its massive efforts to reduce alcohol-related accidents. If you’re in a situation where you’ve been involved in an accident with a suspected drunk driver, seeking legal advice can be crucial.

The top Tennessee drunk driving accident lawyers can help you navigate your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Tennessee Drunk Driving Laws

According to a DUI report by the Tennessee Highway Safety Office, 1 in 7 serious injury crashes involved a drunk driver behind the wheel. This highlights the prevalence of impaired driving. Tennessee’s drunk driving laws are stringent, with a legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and over, and a lower limit of 0.02% for drivers under 21. 

Penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) can include fines, jail time, mandatory alcohol education programs, and license suspension. For a first-time offense, penalties may involve a minimum of 48 hours in jail and a $350 fine, while repeat offenders face harsher consequences, such as longer jail sentences, higher fines, and mandatory ignition interlock devices.

Additionally, Tennessee enforces implied consent laws, meaning drivers who refuse to take a breathalyzer test face automatic license suspension.

Common Signs of Drunk Driving

• Swerving or Drifting Between Lanes

A common sign of a drunk driver is erratic lane behavior, like swerving or drifting. Alcohol affects focus and motor skills, making it difficult to keep the car in a straight line. A driver may weave across the road, cross the centerline, or move onto the shoulder, increasing the risk of an accident.

• Sudden Stops and Delayed Reactions

Drunk drivers often show delayed reactions, like braking too late or coming to an abrupt stop. Alcohol slows reflexes, making it difficult to respond quickly to traffic changes.

• Speeding or Driving Too Slowly

Drunk drivers may speed excessively, feeling overconfident, or drive too slowly, struggling to stay alert. Both behaviors can disrupt traffic and create hazardous conditions.

• Ignoring Traffic Signals

Alcohol impairs cognitive functions, making it hard for drivers to notice or react to traffic signals. Drunk drivers may run red lights, miss stop signs, or fail to yield.

• Driving Without Headlights at Night

Operating a vehicle at night without headlights suggests the driver may be intoxicated. This oversight reduces visibility and puts other road users at risk.

• Tailgating or Following Too Closely

Tailgating may indicate impaired judgment. Drunk drivers often misjudge distances, increasing the chances of rear-end collisions.

• Making Wide or Erratic Turns

Drivers under the influence may struggle with turns, resulting in wide or jerky movements. Alcohol impairs coordination, making even simple maneuvers difficult.

• Frequent or Unnecessary Lane Changes

Erratic lane changing without signaling may suggest the driver is confused or impaired, disrupting traffic flow.

• Stopping in the Middle of the Road

Stopping in the middle of the road for no apparent reason can be a sign of a drunk driver. This behavior can confuse other drivers and cause accidents.

•  Difficulty Staying Awake

Alcohol can cause drowsiness. A driver who appears to be nodding off or struggling to stay awake may be intoxicated.

Final Thoughts

Recognizing the signs of a drunk driver can help you avoid dangerous situations and possibly save lives. By being aware of erratic driving behaviors, you can stay safer on the road.

If you find yourself involved in a collision with a drunk driver, a Tennessee drunk driving accident lawyer can provide valuable assistance in handling the aftermath.